Page 40 of Be My Valentine

Sarah Donovan looked at her without understanding.

“I’m having a dinner party tonight at the Arrow house, parents want to thank me and all. Now you have to get something suitable out of here. And it’s not over! I need an evening gown for the charity auction. Come on!” she encouraged her “Miracles are accepted!”

“The usual pessimist. You’ll have no problem with a casual dinner at home. Here you go!” she laid the black knit sheath dress on the bed “It covers your knees, so it doesn’t look like you’re trying to snare anyone by showing off your goodies.”

Too late, Mom.

“I’ll lend you one of my scarves and the long malachite necklace. You’ll look perfect. You can wear the leather boots.”

Kate quickly approved.

“All that’s missing is the evening gown.”

Her mother looked at her.

“I’m afraid you’ll have to buy it.”

Kate groaned and flopped down on the bed next to the black dress.

“We can’t afford it. And I can’t buy a cheap dress, or I know there will be someone there who won’t hesitate to tear me apart.”

That bitch Annie Carson.

“Maybe Allie has something you can borrow.”

Kate sat up in a daze.

“Definitely! Why didn’t I think of that? I’ll call her on my way to work. Thanks mom, you’re a genius! I’ll grab my duffle bag. I can’t make it home; I’ll change at the office.”

“I’ll make it for you, have breakfast.”

Kate flew into the kitchen.

One hour later and with the duffle bag over her shoulder she rang Emma’s door. Phil opened it for her.

“This way!” she heard her friend’s voice coming from the living room “I’m a little on edge, let’s hope we didn’t forget anything.”

“We’ll check it out now, to be on the safe side.”

“Is the dress for tonight in there?” She eyed the duffel bag.

“As you suggested.” Confirmed Kate.

“I’d love to see what you’re wearing on Saturday! You’ll look beautiful, I on the other hand will be a whale, not sure what color yet. I love my big belly, but what the heck… Mark would say I’m a narcissist… what a mouthful! I don’t mind being liked though, I mean, yeah, I’m a little self-centered.” She huffed.

“My wonderful egocentric one.” her husband kissed her on the fly “If you’re ever alone call me, I can work from home.”

Kate liked that thoughtfulness; it was what she would have wanted.

“Get lost. My mother won’t leave me alone!”

Phil walked out leaving them alone.

“So?” Emma asked.

Kate picked up the list for the umpteenth time.

“Let’s start over!”